Dec 29, 20212 min read

Guinevere Borja will play for Oklahoma Panhandle State U

GUINEVERE Borja, 20, has joined a new team on the mainland U.S. — the Oklahoma Panhandle State University Aggies. “Their coaching staff and overall vision for the program were the biggest influence in my decision to commit to OPSU,” she said. The Marianas High School graduate said the university has a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics D2 soccer program which does not just stop at the college level as many of its players have went on to pursue a professional sports career. “I’m looking forward to help build the program even further and to play with a passionate team,” Borja said. Prior to committing to OPSU, Borja completed two seasons with the Navarro College in the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I. “It was an unreal experience to be among the best players and teams in the conference,” she said. “The feeling of making it was incomparable — it was a big personal and team achievement.” She added, “I am extremely grateful to my teammates and coaches for all of their contributions which aided us in competing in the national tournament.” She said playing in the NJCAA D1 built her confidence and made her eager to jump into the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. She believes that the OPSU women's soccer team will be a great fit for her. “My strengths as a soccer player are mainly technical. I am looking to contribute to the team by controlling the pace of the game with technique and simple soccer,” she said. Borja has been playing soccer since she was 13. She has already experienced playing in Asian Football Confederation tournaments. She has also seen action in U16, U19 and women's division events along with the two Marianas Cup tournaments against Guam. Asked if she would want to become a professional player, she said she hasn’t decided yet. But, she added, “I love the sport so much and don’t see myself stopping anytime soon.” As for her studies at OPSU, Borja said she will continue to balance academics and soccer. “Though it is challenging at times, time management and internal drive are the key!”